LPG case to reach court in 3 months: police

The Nation May 18, 2013 11:34 am

Thai police expect the cases against major LPG retailers, charged of illegally taking profit from gas price differences, will go to court within 3 months.

So far, a number of 76 gas compression plant operators and 47 gas station operators, plus 111 individuals involved have been charged. On May 30, 15 more gas compression plant operators and 20 fuel station operators would be notified of the charges.

The working committee tasked to tackle the illegal action launched a secret mission, to investigate if any individuals or companies take advantage of the differentials in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices for transport and household uses. From early this year, LPG price for transport use has been gradually increased, while household price is maintained. Thailand is now the net importer of LPG, having the Oil Fund subsidising the steep differential in overseas and local prices.

It was estimated this results to the governmentâ€™s subsidies of about Bt3 billion.

They are charged of violating the anti-money laundering law. If found guilty, these parties will face asset foreclosure.